Abstract:With the increasing utilization of data networks for the command and control of audio devices a number of protocols have been defined and promoted. These competing protocol initiatives, while providing methods suited to their target applications, have created confusion among potential adopters as to which protocol best fits their needs. In addition, the question is being asked, Why do we need so many “standard” protocols? At least four different industry organizations have involved themselves in some form of standardized protocol effort. AES is currently pursuing standardization of two such protocols, AES64 and X-210 (aka OCA). IEC has IEC62379, while IEEE is defining AVDECC (IEE1722.1) and ESTA offers ACN and there’s OSC from opensoundcontrol.org. This workshop addresses what differentiates these protocols by examining their target use applications.